Welcome to our guide on how to say cheers in Hong Kong! Whether you’re planning a trip to this vibrant city or simply curious about the local customs, knowing how to toast and say cheers is an important part of any social gathering. In this guide, we’ll cover both formal and informal ways to raise a glass, along with a few regional variations if necessary. So let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Cheers in Hong Kong
In formal settings, such as business dinners, special occasions, or when paying respect to elders, it’s important to use the appropriate language to show proper etiquette. Here are a few formal ways to say cheers in Hong Kong:
- Kān pèi (干杯): This is the most common way to say cheers in Hong Kong. It translates to “empty the glass” and is a gesture of goodwill and celebration. Raise your glass, make eye contact, and say “Kān pèi!”
- Gan bei (乾杯): This phrase has its roots in Mandarin Chinese but is also widely understood and used in Hong Kong. It has the same meaning as “Kān pèi” and is often accompanied by a clinking of glasses.
Informal Ways to Say Cheers in Hong Kong
Informal settings, such as casual gatherings with friends or family, offer more flexibility in how you can say cheers. Here are a few informal ways to toast in Hong Kong:
- Yum sing: This Cantonese phrase translates to “drink and win” and is a popular informal way to say cheers among friends. Raise your glass, make eye contact, and say “Yum sing!”
- Sei gōn (飲乾): This phrase translates to “drink up” and is commonly used in informal settings to encourage everyone to finish their drink. It’s a fun and lighthearted way to say cheers among friends.
Regional Variations
Hong Kong has a diverse population with regional variations in dialects and cultures. While the phrases mentioned above are widely understood, it’s worth noting a few regional variations:
In some parts of Hong Kong, such as the New Territories, you may come across people saying “Gam bai” (乾杯) instead of “Kān pèi” or “Gan bei.” This variation is similar in meaning and is a reflection of the local dialect and customs.
Tips and Examples for Saying Cheers in Hong Kong
Now that you have an understanding of the formal, informal, and regional ways to say cheers in Hong Kong, here are a few tips and examples to help you navigate social situations:
- Always make eye contact when toasting, as it shows respect and sincerity. It’s considered impolite to look away or avoid eye contact during a toast.
- When clinking glasses, it’s customary to tilt your glass slightly lower than the person you’re toasting to. This gesture symbolizes respect and is a sign of humility.
- If you’re the guest of honor, it’s polite to wait for others to initiate the toast before taking a sip. This shows humility and allows others to show their appreciation.
- When someone says cheers to you, it’s customary to respond with a nod, a smile, and a sip from your glass. This acknowledges the toast and shows gratitude for the good wishes.
Examples of how to say cheers in Hong Kong:
In a formal setting:
Host: “Kān pèi!”
Guests: “Kān pèi!” (Raise glasses, clink, and take a sip)
In an informal setting:
Friends: “Yum sing!”
Friends: “Yum sing!” (Raise glasses, clink, and take a sip)
In a regional variation:
Host: “Gam bai!”
Guests: “Gam bai!” (Raise glasses, clink, and take a sip)
Remember, the most important thing is to show sincerity and enjoy the moment while toasting with friends, family, or colleagues in Hong Kong.
Now that you’re equipped with the knowledge of how to say cheers in Hong Kong, go ahead and enjoy your next social gathering in this vibrant city. Kān pèi!
